Who Knew?

They say that hindsight is 20/20.  Looking back, we can see the things we couldn't see looking ahead.  Sometimes it is a very good thing that we don't know what the future holds for us.  If we knew what awaited us down the road, few of us would have willingly left childhood.

Tonight I sit and think about 2 high school classmates.  It's been 40 years since I have seen them, but the wonders of Facebook closes the gaps in time and miles and brings us back together.

You know this couple.  He was the popular jock, she was the pretty cheerleader.  And they were a hot item.  Their high school romance blossemed into life long love that found them happily married, raising a family, and enjoying the benefits of chosen careers.

Then came the diagnosis.  No longer would he be playing sports.  ALS had him dependant on his high tech wheelchair, and the loving care of his family.  Life suddenly was not what they had planned for themselves.  Yet they persevered.  Their love was strong, and their faith in God even stronger.  They were shining examples for others to see.  They gave glory to God through all the hardships.

Yesterday's Facebook post brought cries of dismay from all of us.  While this couple was away, their house caught fire.  Everything was lost, including their two beloved dogs.  What an aweful thing to happen to two wonderful folks who are already dealing with difficulties.  You can imagine the stress the family must have been experiencing yesterday afternoon.

This morning's Facebook brought more bad news.  That energetic, happy-go-lucky cheerleader from high school days, who lovingly cared for the needs of her husband, found the loss of her home a bit more than she could physically bear.  She suffered a heart attack last evening and now was hospitalized in the ICU.

I look at this couple who had everything going for them, and it pains me to see how life can be so cruel.  But we know it is true.  The world is a sinful place, and bad things happen to good people.

One thing we all know for sure.  While we are unsure, God is not.  He knows exactly what is happening.  Before the world began, God knew us by name and called us to be His.  He knew there would be crosses to bear.  But He set the example for us to follow, and He promised to always be with us.  Ultimately all this will be for our eternal good.

How comforting to know that we can raise our prayers to God's throne of grace, not only for ourselves, but for others as well.  God hears our prayers and understands our pain.   He lovingly answers our prayers in a way that He knows is best for our eternal welfare.  We need only trust in Him.

God be with you Steve and Diane.  May He give you the strength and comfort you need at this time.  You are in our prayers.